Events

Overview

“Neurodiversity is an essential form of human diversity. The idea that there is one ‘normal’ or ‘healthy’ type of brain or mind or one “right” style of neurocognitive functioning, is no more valid than the idea that there is one ‘normal’ or ‘right’ gender, race or culture." Nick Walker

Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference which means a person communicates, interacts and understands other people and the world in a different way.

This may present an individual with challenges in areas that come naturally to others, but it can also present strengths and talents due to that ability to think differently. What is most important is being on the autism spectrum does not mean a person has an illness or disease!

Expectations are growing for organisations to report on, act on, and advocate for individuals on the Autism Spectrum in their workplaces. In the last several years, we have also seen the launch of many 'Autism at Work' programmes from organisations like Deloitte, EY, Ford, IBM, JP Morgan, Microsoft, PWC, SAP and Vodafone.

So why should organisations consider individuals on the Autism Spectrum? What does an Autism friendly workplace look like in practice? What can we learn from other organisations journeys? How can I get started in my own organisation? What works and what does not?

With World Autism Awareness Week taking place from the 29th March - 4th April 2021, neurodiversity specialists Lexxic and enei are excited to be partnering for a special event focusing on Autism at Work.

You will hear from a range of speakers, each with the goal of challenging stereotypes and showing good practice examples in the workplace.

Specifically, we will cover;

• Hearing the lived experience of individuals on the Autism Spectrum
• Employers duty of care under the Equality Act
• Managing and empowering talent on the Autism Spectrum
• Good practice examples Autism-friendly organisations
• Recruiting and retaining talent on the Autism Spectrum

Who Should Attend?

Head of HR, HR Directors & Managers, L&D/OD Managers, Diversity Practitioners, Business Managers & Sponsors, Network leads.

Pricing 

enei Members: Free

Non-Members: £50+VAT

Agenda

Introductions

Neurodiversity and Autism at Work

Session 1: Individual Stories – what would we like people to know about Autism?

• Fiona Ferries – As I Am – Understanding Autism – What it is and is not
• Joan Lans Poplana – ND Nurses
• John Nelson – NPAA
• Panel Q&A

BREAK

Session 2: What are the practical things an employer can do?

Examples of Adjustments Across the Employee Lifecycle

• Recruitment
• Common adjustments
• Line Management
• COVID-19 / new ways of working

Panel Q&A

BREAK

Session 3: How can an organisation develop an Autism Friendly Workplace?

• Lee Corless - JP Morgan
• Sandra Healy - DCU
• Panel Q&A

Closing Remarks